As a highly sensitive, intuitive, possibly neurodivergent woman, parenting in a neurotypical, extrovert-coded world can feel like walking through landmines.

Especially at school functions, team sports, or any kind of “parent socializing” event.

Recently, I wrote about how my body goes into full-blown fight-flight-freeze the moment I enter these environments.

A single gruff glance or dismissive smirk from another parent can send my nervous system spiraling. It’s not because I’m antisocial or dramatic. It’s because my body remembers what it feels like to be energetically attacked, gaslit, dismissed, or misunderstood.

When you’ve spent your life masking, code-switching, or surviving trauma—especially trauma that involved the wounded masculine—your system gets really good at scanning for danger. Even when that “danger” is just a PTA potluck or a soccer sideline.

The truth is, my nervous system isn’t broken.

It’s brilliant.

But brilliance needs support.

So if you’ve ever felt like the school parking lot is more overwhelming than a full moon eclipse—you’re not alone.

You’re not too sensitive.

You’re just awake.

And you deserve tools to help you move through these moments with care.

What to Do When Your Nervous System Freaks Out at School Events

You’re not just being “awkward.”

You’re not failing as a mom.

You’re tuned in. Deeply. Powerfully.

Here’s how to support yourself when social parenting spaces feel like too much:

1. Name What’s Happening (Without Judgment)

Instead of: “Why am I like this?”

Try: “My body is feeling alert. Something feels off. I’m listening.”

Naming your experience out loud (or in your head) starts to soothe the limbic system.

2. Create a Pre-Event Ritual

Before you step out of the car, try:

>> Deep belly breaths.

>> A whispered mantra: “I don’t need to perform. I just need to be.”

>> Visualize a golden energy bubble around you—only love and neutrality can come in. Everything else bounces off.

3. Claim a Quiet Spot (or Escape Hatch)

You don’t have to center yourself.

You can be on the edge. That’s still participation.

Scout out the bathroom, step outside for air, or take a few minutes with a tree in the parking lot. (Seriously. Trees regulate better than most humans.)

4. Reframe the Smug Glance

Not everyone is giving side-eye because they’re judging you.

Sometimes people lead with armor.

Sometimes smugness is just shame wearing a costume.

Say to yourself:

“That’s their energy. Not mine. I don’t need to fix it or fight it.”

5. Create a Post-Event Exhale

When you get home:

>> Take a shower or bath and say: “I release anything that’s not mine.”

>> Shake out your limbs.

>> Light a candle and put your hand on your heart.

>> Say: “I showed up. That was enough.”

Final Words:

You don’t need to be the “cool mom.”

You don’t need to stay for the whole game.

You don’t need to chit-chat or overextend.

Your presence—exactly as you are—is enough.

You are not broken.

You are awake.

And your child is watching you model true self-respect—something this world deeply needs.

~